Best Grants for Museums in Oregon

The Oregon Arts Commission's Sustaining Arts Program - Group A provides operating support grants to arts organizations with annual operating expenses under $150,000. Grants range from $1,000 to $3,000, aimed at enhancing community arts programming and outreach. This initiative ensures that small organizations can maintain high-quality artistic services while fostering local culture and creativity. Funding is contingent on the number of eligible applications and available budget, promoting equity in arts funding.

The Jackson Foundation, established by Maria C. Jackson, provides funding for charitable, educational, and welfare-related projects primarily within Oregon. Governed by trustees, it aims to enhance public welfare in Portland and statewide. The Foundation does not support individual grants or private businesses and typically limits funding to one grant per organization annually. It considers projects of broader appeal outside the Portland area, ensuring that its contributions effectively promote community welfare.

The Oregon Access & Habitat (A&H) Program, established in 1993, aims to enhance wildlife habitat and improve public access to private lands for hunting. Managed by a board comprising hunters, landowners, and public representatives, the program reviews project proposals and makes recommendations for funding. In 2009, it was reauthorized for an additional ten years, reflecting strong community support and an ongoing commitment to wildlife conservation and responsible hunting practices.

The OWEB Operating Capacity Grants support watershed councils and soil and water conservation districts in their operational costs. These biennial grants foster community engagement in voluntary watershed restoration efforts. By funding 45 districts, the program aids in conserving natural resources and enhances water quality through collaborative practices. The Council Capacity Grants specifically empower councils to restore native fish habitats and improve watershed functions, ensuring sustainable water management and healthier ecosystems.

The OWEB Small Grant Projects support local restoration initiatives across Oregon, offering up to $20,000 for on-the-ground projects that enhance water quality, aquatic species, and wildlife habitats. This competitive program encourages community engagement and prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate watershed benefits and adhere to specific project guidelines. Eligible applicants include tribes, watershed councils, and local agencies committed to sustainable practices that align with the Oregon Conservation Strategy.

The OWEB Restoration Grants support watershed projects aimed at protecting and restoring watershed functions. Eligible applicants include tribes, watershed councils, and educational institutions. Projects can involve improving fish passage, enhancing habitat, and managing invasive species. However, ineligible projects include those focused solely on water storage or routine maintenance. This program fosters collaboration among various stakeholders in Oregon to enhance ecosystems and promote sustainable practices.

The OWEB Water Acquisition Grant Program aims to enhance instream flows by facilitating the acquisition of water rights from willing sellers. This program addresses critical conservation needs for habitats and species while improving water quality in Oregon's water-limited areas. Eligible applicants include tribes, non-profits, and local governments, with a focus on projects that implement strategic planning and monitoring for sustainable water use. Priority is given to partnerships that align with ecological priorities.

The OWEB Land Acquisition Grant Program, administered by the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board, supports projects aimed at acquiring land for conservation and restoration efforts. Applicants must consult with OWEB staff prior to submission, ensuring a comprehensive and competitive application process. This program aims to enhance Oregon's natural resources and promote sustainable land use practices. With a focus on collaboration, it encourages applicants to align with OWEB's statutes and guidance for successful project outcomes.

The Oregon State Weed Board Grant Program, administered by the Oregon Department of Agriculture and OWEB, focuses on controlling noxious weeds to protect water quality and restore watershed health. Eligible applicants include tribes, colleges, and conservation districts, with an emphasis on integrated weed management strategies. Projects must prioritize on-the-ground control efforts and demonstrate clear site management objectives. This funding opportunity aims to enhance fish and wildlife habitats and support native salmonid populations.

The Oregon Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, funded by the USDA through the Oregon Department of Agriculture, aims to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops such as fruits, vegetables, and nursery crops. Eligible applicants include non-profits, government entities, and producer groups. Projects must demonstrate potential benefits to U.S. specialty crops, and funds cannot be used for research proposals or to benefit a single entity. This initiative supports diverse agricultural advancements in Oregon.

Each PLTW Engineering course engages students in interdisciplinary activities like working with a client to design a home, programming electronic devices or robotic arms, or exploring algae as a biofuel source. These activities not only build knowledge and skills in engineering, but also empower students to develop essential skills such as problem solving, critical and creative thinking, communication, collaboration, and perseverance.

Through this partnership, Intel Foundation has committed funds to support PLTW grants to schools interested in starting or expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year.

Program Requirements: 

• Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Engineering course in the 2027-2028 academic year and must offer one additional course each academic year of the grant period (two different courses in two years). 
• Schools may implement any PLTW Engineering courses of their choosing. 
• Grantee must complete two years of Grant reporting. 

Grant Award and Distribution Schedule:

• Total Award: $40,000
  • 2027-2028: $20,000
  • 2028-2029: $20,000

The First Interstate BancSystem Foundation focuses on strengthening communities by providing grants primarily to nonprofits assisting low- and moderate-income individuals. In 2023, they awarded $9.2 million across their footprint, emphasizing projects with significant community impact. Grants are recommended by local First Interstate Bank branches and are evaluated based on the nonprofit's leadership, financial stability, and community benefit. Areas of ineligibility include individual projects and those that do not demonstrate a substantial community impact.

Nature's Path's Gardens for Good program empowers communities by funding organic gardens that address food insecurity. Since 2010, it has donated $930,000 CAD to support 120 gardens. In 2023, grants of $6,500 each will be awarded to 20 gardens across the U.S. and Canada. Eligible applicants must be registered non-profits with urban organic agriculture projects that serve low-income communities, promoting sustainable practices and inclusivity.

The NRA Foundation: Oregon Grants aim to support educational and public service programs related to shooting sports. The foundation provides funding for projects that promote firearms safety, educate individuals about firearms, and conduct research for improved safety practices. Eligible organizations include IRS recognized entities and government bodies. The foundation does not fund commercial ventures or activities requiring NRA membership. This initiative fosters community engagement and enhances skills in marksmanship and safety for all participants.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Oregon support eligible rural communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that threaten safe drinking water availability. Funded by USDA Rural Development, these grants can address issues like droughts, floods, or chemical spills. They offer up to $150,000 for water transmission line projects and up to $1,000,000 for water source construction, ensuring access to clean water in affected areas.

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service Joint Fire Science Program (JFSP) invites proposals for regional fire science exchanges across nine designated regions in the U.S. This initiative aims to promote the sharing of fire science knowledge and practices over a two-year period. Eligible applicants can focus on regions including Alaska, Appalachians, Great Basin, North Atlantic, Northern Rockies, Northwest, Oak Woodlands, Pacific Islands, and Southwest. Proposals must be specific to one region.

Geraldine Stephenson Scholarship

The Geraldine Stephenson Continuing Education Scholarship Endowment, administered by the Legacy Meridian Park Medical Center Volunteers, provides a yearly grant of no more than $10,000 to an individual/s in a medically-related field. Geraldine "Gerry" Stephenson was a charter member of the Legacy Meridian Park Medical Center Auxiliary and served as bookkeeper for the Gift Shop for 15 years. In memory of Gerry and her ideals, this endowment has been established. It is intended to support and encourage those who lack the opportunity or means to continue an education. Its purpose is to provide assistance to those who wish to continue to work toward a vocational or undergraduate degree and who, due to 1) financial need and 2) current or past family responsibilities and/or other personal disabilities have had their higher education interrupted for an extended period of at least five years or more or have been unable to complete their education due to hardship.

This scholarship will enable candidates to pursue their education by providing funds to help cover the cost of tuition, books and other school-related fees as long as they meet academic standards of a 3.0 GPA.

The CHS Foundation's Ag Leadership Grant aims to enhance agricultural leadership and cooperative education. This program supports projects that cultivate a diverse pipeline for future agricultural leaders, focusing on education and career training for high school students to young professionals. Priority is given to initiatives that impact multiple states within the CHS trade area, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the cooperative business model in agriculture.

The CHS Foundation's Cooperative Education Grant aims to support educational projects that enhance understanding of the agricultural cooperative business model. With a focus on middle school to college-age students, the program encourages innovative approaches, measurable outcomes, and engagement strategies. It prioritizes initiatives with a national or state-level reach within the CHS trade area, fostering success and growth in cooperative education. Funding will be allocated to programs that align with these goals, ensuring a robust educational framework for future leaders in agriculture.

The Department of the Interior's Wildland Fire Service Joint Fire Science Program (JFSP) invites proposals for the FLAMES award, aimed at master and doctoral students in wildland fire studies. This initiative enhances research relevance by connecting students with fire management practices, providing experiential learning opportunities, and fostering mentorship. Students will gain valuable insights into management and policy, preparing them for impactful careers in fire science. The program emphasizes peer-learning and professional development in the context of wildland fire management.

The Environmental Grantmaking Program at the Educational Foundation of America (EFA) aims to support projects that facilitate a transition to a net-zero electricity system. Focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the program emphasizes initiatives that enhance access to affordable clean energy, accelerate regional transitions, and strengthen financial investment in electric utilities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 public charities, academic institutions, and government entities committed to sustainable energy solutions.

The NWS Student Travel Grants, offered by the Northwest Scientific Association, provide financial assistance up to $1,000 for students to attend and present at the 2025 NWSA Annual Meeting in Eugene, OR, on March 18-19. Eligible applicants must be current NWSA student members and engaged in research relevant to the Northwest. The funding covers registration, travel, accommodation, and presentation costs, facilitating scholarly exchange and professional development for students in the region.

The Black Student Success Community Network Grants aim to address educational inequities faced by marginalized Black children and families in Oregon through strategic collaboration. This initiative facilitates partnerships among community organizations dedicated to improving Black student success. In 2022, 24 organizations received $20,000 grants to enhance their capacity to engage in network activities and provide essential services tailored to Black students from early learning through post-secondary education.

The Eastern Oregon Border Board Community Improvement Planning Grant aims to enhance economic development and workforce capacity in the Border Region. Grants of up to $100,000 are available for projects that improve the area's tax base, competitiveness, and workforce skills. Local governments are eligible to apply, focusing on community improvement planning and leveraging additional funding sources. This initiative seeks impactful projects that significantly benefit education and regional prosperity.

The Gray Family Foundation Camp Maintenance fund aims to enhance outdoor school camp facilities across Oregon, investing over $500,000 annually since 2014. This initiative focuses on vital repairs, including weatherproofing, roofing, and plumbing systems, ensuring safe and accessible environments for children. Applications are open to non-profit organizations without invitation, emphasizing inclusivity and diversity in selection. However, capital projects for new construction and recreational maintenance are excluded from funding.

The Trail Blazers Foundation Fund – PLAY Grant aims to enhance the lives of underserved youth in Oregon and SW Washington by promoting physical activity. With grants of up to $50,000 over two years, eligible organizations can implement programs that encourage active lifestyles among children and their families. This initiative reflects the Foundation's commitment to community engagement and health, ensuring that all youth have opportunities to thrive through active play.

The Trail Blazers Foundation Fund – LEARN Grant focuses on supporting youth from historically underserved communities in Oregon and southwest Washington. The grant offers up to $25,000 annually for organizations that help youth graduate high school and meet academic benchmarks. After the first year, selected organizations may receive an additional $25,000, totaling $50,000 over two years. This initiative aims to create positive impacts in the lives of young individuals where they live, learn, and play.